What is the lymphatic system and lymphedema?

The lymphatic system is structured like a web, occasionally draining into small lumps or nodes that filter the lymphatic fluid. The system works through the pumping power of the body’s muscles. The muscles contract, increasing pressure within the lymph vessels, which causes the fluid to move. A series of one-way valves ensure that the fluid moves in the right direction. Lymphedema, the build up of protein rich fluid in the subcutaneous interstitial compartment occurs when either lymph fluid is impeded from flowing through the lymph vessels and lymphatic system or there is an excess of fluid that exceeds the carrying capacity of the lymph system. It collects in the subcutaneous and deep tissues causing swelling of the affected area and predisposes to chronic inflammation.

What happens when lymphedema occurs in people after breast cancer treatment?

When a sentinel node is removed, a number of nodes are removed, or if the nodes receive radiation therapy, the body is at risk for lymphedema. The loss of lymph nodes and vessels can result in lymphedema in the arm or other parts of the body. The amount of fluid collection is variable and at this time, unpredictable because of the variability of the insults and the lymphatic system itself.

Why is it important to be aware of my breast cancer related lymphedema risk?

Any event which stimulates the formation of increased protein fluid and floating cells between the cells in the arm (such as infection, trauma and sun burn) or slow the flow of lymph fluid out of the arm (such as have blood pressure taken with a cuff) can increase the chance of fluid accumulating in the arm. Since no truly curative therapies exist, medical intervention is focused on preventing occurrences and recurrences and is most often dependent on patient self management and adherence. Prolonged or severe fluid build up can result in a more severe and permanent lymphedema.

How do I manage lymphedema?

Lymphedema is managed and treated through a variety of therapies. Compression arm sleeves and gauntlets are one such therapy. LympheDUDEs arm sleeves and gauntlets are Class 1 (20-30mmHg) and Class 2 (30-40mmHg) medical devices. Like other arm sleeves they utilize graduated compression, the highest pressure is at the wrist and acts as a pump to encourage the lymph vessels to push the lymph fluid toward the body. LympheDUDEs garments are regularly tested using a Vista-Medical FSA pressure mapping system to assure proper compression. LympheDUDEs garments can improve patient compliance to therapy through increased comfort and better fashion.

At LympheDUDEs we believe that a majority of sleeves that were prescribed and purchased were worn a few times and then hidden in a drawer out of distaste and discomfort. Knowing that the compression sleeve cannot reduce the chance of occurrence or swelling by remaining in the drawer, LympheDUDEs has made lymphedema management easier by adding a dose of style and having superior comfort. A LympheDUDE enjoys wearing his sleeve because it is stylish, modern and fun. Men are more likely to derive the benefits of the garments simply because they are more likely to wear them and less likely to suffer from complications!

When should I wear a compression sleeve?

We recommend consulting with a doctor or lymphedema therapist in order to find the most appropriate therapy for each individual. All women who are at risk for lymphedema or who have mild to moderate lymphedema should, at a minimum, wear their sleeve and gauntlet during air travel and while exercising.